Species Richness of Lauraceae in Selected Mountains in the Philippines

Philippine archipelago was rich with Lauraceae plants especially in low to medium altitude. Mostly are aromatic with medicinal and economic values. At present time these low to medium altitude was dominated by settlements and agricultural lands, developed to meet the needs of fast increasing populations. These species are threatened to disappear if not given attention. Exerted efforts are needed to conserved these species. These endeavor tried to fill the gap, transect walk method were done, document and record the elevation and coordinates of the encountered Lauraceae species in all surveyed areas. Results showed that only few species left in the mountains and some areas in the Philippines. Mt. Musuan, Bukidnon has an initial of 11 species, Mt. Apo has 9 species, Mt. Kitanglad and Mt. Hamiguitan has 6 species each. ERBD Maharlika, Surigao del Sur has 4 species and Mt. Kiamo has 3 species. Two species each were recorded in Malaybalay, Bukidnon; Negros Oriental; Alcoy, Cebu and Camiguin Island. One species each in Quezon, Bukidnon; Mt. Malindang; Mt. Makiling and UPLB Los Banos. Further survey were recommended to obtain accurate number of species of family Lauraceae.